Fables are short stories that illustrate morals or truths. Though usually read to children, fables hold great wisdom for adults, too. As a coach, I use fables with clients to generate creative ways to problem solve or get perspective. They are short so even the busiest person has time for them.
With well known fables, like The Tortoise and Hare, we know the moral of the story. But, what about fables that aren’t as popular? Those are my favorite to use with clients because they invite clients to consider what the moral could be for them.
In this comment challenge, I am going to ask you to come up with the moral of the story for the following Aesop’s Fables. Read the stories. I’ve provided two just in case one speaks to you more than another. Comment about one or both.
The Crab and His Mother.
” An old crab said to her son, ‘Why do you walk sideways like that, my son? You ought to walk straight.’
The Young crab replied, ‘Show me how dear Mother, and I’ll follow your example.’
The Old Crab tried but tried in vain, and then saw how foolish she had been to find fault with her child.”
The Wild Boar and The Fox
“A Wild Boar was engaged in sharpening his tusks upon the trunk of a tree in the forest when a Fox came by and, seeing what he was at, said to him, ‘Why are you doing that, pray? The huntsmen are not out today, and there are no other dangers at hand that I can see.’
‘True, my friend,’ replied the Boar, ‘but the instant my life is in danger I shall need to use my tusks. There’ll be no time to sharpen them then.”
Think about your own situation. What does the story mean? What, if any, connection could be made to communication? Family? Work? Spiritual growth? Money? Creativity? Leadership? Social Media? Focus? Relationships? Leave a comment!